Registration continues for the 8th-Annual Freedom’s Run—set for Saturday, October 1, in Shepherdstown—featuring a full marathon, half-marathon, 10k, 5k, kids fun run, and other activities. The annual event gets more popular by the year as it endeavors to lead the charge in restoring health to both West Virginia as well as the nation.

The scenic yet challenging courses through Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, the C&O Canal, and the engaging hills of Antietam are designed for both avid competitors and those who just want to enjoy an inspiring event in a breathtaking setting. That said, the historical route and race organization has earned Runner’s World Magazine’s recognition as a “Bucket List Race for the Family,” a “Top 25 Half-Marathon” in 2013, and the “Highlight Race” in October 2013. Just last month, USA Today recognized the event as a “Top 10 Destination Race.”

Organized and inspired by Dr. Mark Cucuzzella—a Professor of Family Medicine at West Virginia University School of Medicine, and owner of Shepherdstown’s Two Rivers Treads, the nation’s first minimalist shoe store—Freedom’s Run also wants youth to participate in the free Kids One Mile Fun Run. For those under 18 who want to challenge the 5k, 10k, or half-marathon, there is a $10 Off Code—“youth10”—to be used at the online registration.

Attended by thousands, race weekend will have a Pre-Race Expo on Friday (9/30), from 12-8pm, at the Shepherd University Wellness Center—full of local vendors and footwear available to try. The weekend also includes two amazing speakers/guest runners who will share their stories of coming off opiates (and even losing 200 pounds). The talk will also take place that Friday at the Shepherdstown Opera House at 5pm. Read about Phillip Brenneman and Travis Meulheisen here and be inspired by the body’s amazing ability to heal.

Also, continuing in 2016 is the opportunity to run for free, and to earn incentives, including free shoes, by running for causes of community fitness trails at local schools and activities surrounding our history and heritage. Find out more at here.

Similar to previous years, Freedom’s Run brings more than just runners to Shepherdstown—race weekend will see Shepherd campus as well as the downtown area alive and bustling with runners, fans, supporters, and curious visitors and natives. As participants finish up, they have the added luxury of getting a free shower at the Shepherd Wellness Center—and many of them do, which gives them an excuse to head back into town looking for food and beverages.

Ultimately, Freedom’s Run is one of the premier annual events in the Eastern Panhandle, and this year is shaping up to be even bigger and better than recent ones. And what’s not to like: perfect temps, a beautiful setting, and thousands of folks in a good mood descending on one of America’s most talked-about destinations of choice.